Bicycle transportation in Buenos Aires has taken a great leap in recent years. The city authorities have promoted the use of this means of transportation to discourage overpopulation of private vehicles, especially in areas such as the Obelisk of Buenos Aires.
Although it is not prudent to say that everyone travels to work or to study by bicycle, the policy to encourage cycling has borne good results. Nowadays, cycling through Buenos Aires is no odyssey and there are several reasons to justify it.
Bicycles in Buenos Aires: A Good Transportation Option in the City
Exclusive Lanes
In the streets and avenues of Buenos Aires, exclusive lanes for bicycles have been established. These lanes are located in the lane closest to the left sidewalk of streets and avenues, and only bicycles can travel in them.
Most exclusive lanes, also known as protected bike lanes, have two-way traffic. This way, you can travel from any end of Buenos Aires without dealing with the traffic of cars, trucks, and buses.
Signage
Just as cyclists have their own lanes, they must also obey the traffic signals that apply to them.
Since bicycles have exclusive lanes, adherence to traffic regulations is mandatory to avoid accidents and problems with pedestrians.
For example, bicycles have their own traffic light that allows or prohibits crossing streets. Additionally, the exclusive lane is marked by a yellow line on the right, which cyclists and vehicles in the main lane cannot cross.
Bicycle Rental System
Did you know that you can rent a public bicycle in Buenos Aires? This system, known as Ecobici, offers bicycles and stations where you can pick them up to travel to any point in the city.
The process is simple and requires just registering in the corresponding app. From there, you can go to an Ecobici station (there are approximately 340 in total) and take a bike, enjoying a set usage time and leaving the bike at another station at your destination.
This bicycle rental system has promoted interest among Buenos Aires residents in cycling. In fact, many start using it as a secondary travel option and then decide to invest in their own bicycle.
Increase in Bicycle Availability
The supply of new and used bicycles is extensive. This is not surprising, given the increasing demand over the years.
You won’t have trouble finding a store that sells new and used bicycles where you can compare prices. From urban models to folding bikes, the latter being very common in Buenos Aires, to more advanced bikes with multiple gears and speeds.
Generally, bicycles are offered with financing programs, although many sellers provide a discount on the final price if you pay in cash and upfront.
Bicycle Repair Workshops
A bicycle can get damaged like any vehicle. But it’s reassuring that you can find a repair shop close to your accommodation or home.
Many foreigners residing in Buenos Aires have had problems with their bicycles, ranging from minor to complex issues, and have found quick solutions in repair shops. In fact, in some cases, they don’t even charge for the service, as it might just be a tire that needs air or a minor problem.
Last Considerations
Indeed, Buenos Aires is a fantastic city for bicycle transportation. The exclusive lanes, good signage, public bicycles, repair shops, and a wide market for bikes all contribute to this.
For many foreigners, the bicycle is their main mode of transportation, whether for practicality, convenience, or simply because it’s an environmentally friendly vehicle. Thus, having a city that prioritizes cyclists is undoubtedly a factor that tips the scale in favor of Buenos Aires as a destination for digital nomads, expats, and travelers.
(Featured Image Source: Koki Bengolea Photo/flickr.com)
